Cuomo Expected To Sign Bill Banning E-Cigs For Youth

Albany, NY (WIBX) - No rules surround the sale of electronic cigarettes, or "e-cigarettes," but that could change quickly if Governor Andrew Cuomo signs legislation passed by the State Legislature into law.

E-cigarettes are battery-operated and deliver flavored nictoine through vapor. Because they are not technically a food or drug, the Food and Drug Administration does not yet regulate them. Therefore there are no age restrictions on their sale.

Although e-cigarettes are marketed to enable smokers to quit, the fruit flavors are appealing to young people. The American Cancer Society's Russ Sciandra said that passing the bill is "kind of a no-brainer."

State Senator Owen Johnson and Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal were the bill's primary sponsors. The bill passed on the final day of the legislative session and is awaiting the Governor's signature.

Alaska, Idaho, Kansas, and Maryland currently have laws on the books restricting the sale of e-cigarettes.